Worry has two effects: reducing storage and processing ability of working memory; and impairing in-task effort and performance. Effectiveness more than efficiency

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3 Functions of Processing Efficiency (Eysenck and Calvo, 1992)

Shifting- The ability to switch attention between stimuli in a task. Inhibition- the ability to block out a stimulus while focusing on necessary one. Updating- Having a picture of the playing field and remembering it whilst changing focus

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Stress (Selye, 1956)

Is the onset of the 'Fight or Flight' system in result of stimuli. The HPA axis sends hormone to the potuity gland and that send adrenal-cortex to kidney. Adrenaline and cortisol are released-onset of sympathetic sysetm

Attentional focus widens with increase in anxiety. Saccadic movements allow us to be blind for fraction of a second. In theory this means that the more anxious we get, the less info we extract.

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Wood and Wilson (2010)

Found anxiety increases saccadic movements in penalty kicks

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Nibbeling et al (2012)

Study aimed to see impact of high anxiety situations on expert level darts. Played darts whilst on climbing wall. Found once expertise is achieved, there isn't significant decrease in performance under stress.